3 Tips for Buying a New Bed

Advice for selecting the proper mattress abounds. But what about the bed itself? Furniture has been around since the beginning of non-nomadic culture, and while the first beds were only piles of straw, elaborate beds have been used for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians, for example, slept on high couches accessed via steps, and accented with decorative pillows and curtains.

Whether you prefer something simple or something impressive, here are some tips on how to choose a new bed that will stand the test of time:

Consider Styles In Person

There are many different styles of beds, and it can be difficult to envision how each would look in your space from online pictures alone. Visit bedroom furniture stores or the bedroom section of your local warehouse store to get ideas. Also pay attention to whether you’re choosing a traditional bed frame, which requires a box spring, or a platform bed, which supports a mattress directly.

Know Your Furniture Building Materials

Construction quality counts when it comes to furniture that bears a lot of stress, such as a couch or bed. Good furniture building materials include solid woods and wrought iron, held together with screws or pins. Stay away from composite materials, which may not be as sturdy. You should be able to find a maximum weight for any piece of furniture in the product specifications—just be sure to take into account the weight of a mattress and any people or pets that might be sharing your sleeping space.

Select Lasting Embellishments

Padded headboards are more comfortable, which is why they’ve been popular throughout the years. But when you rest your head on a headboard, oils from your scalp and hair can transfer—and most headboards don’t allow padded panels to be removed for cleaning, meaning fabric can discolor and begin to smell. For this reason, consider leather instead of fabric. Even when fixed in place, leather can be easily wiped clean, staying fresh for years. Leather also offers a timeless look. In general, stay away from anything overly trendy, since a bedframe can last decades; you can always add flair with your bedding instead.

Do you have any tips on how to choose bedroom furniture? Share in the comments. More research here.